Third man charged in swarming death of 18-year-old outside bar

A third man has been charged in the fatal beating and stabbing of an 18-year-old outside a downtown bar last weekend.

Lukas Strasser-Hird and his friends were embroiled in two fights with another group early Saturday.

Friends of the victim say he was later swarmed by seven to 10 people — an allegation police are taking seriously.

“As a trend, it’s very disconcerting,” police Chief Rick Hanson said.

While not commenting directly on Strasser-Hird’s killing, Hanson said police must “send a message” that swarming attacks won’t be tolerated. Hiding in a group won’t spare someone from being charged if they’re involved — in any way — Hanson said.

“If you get involved in an assault of that nature, you are going to be held responsible,” he said.

On Thursday, police arrested Joch Pouk, 20, of Calgary, who has now been charged with second-degree murder.